The Opera House Hungarian State Opera – opened in 1884 – (Magyar Állami Operaház) is the masterpiece of Miklós Ybl, one of the greatest Hungarian architects of all time. The building is a splendid example of neo-Renaissance style, while its rich ornaments also show a few baroque elements. The auditorium can seat 1300 persons, and although the Hungarian State Opera is not the largest opera house, it has the 3rd best acoustics in Europe after the Scala in Milan and the Opera Garnier in Paris. Its best-known piece is The Nutcracker, which has enjoyed unfaltering popularity for years – despite being on show all December, it is almost impossible to get tickets for this Tchaikovsky ballet. There are two guided in the building every day, at 3pm and 4pm.
